Problem:Limited range w/ PW due to "RF noisy" 580EX II...(340 - 354 MHz FCC models only - generally USA).
It is the Canon 580EX II that is emitting this RF radiation within the frequency range assigned to PW (as licensed by the FCC). The PW (as a receiver) is supposed to receive all signals within a certain frequency range, which is just what it is doing by design. The FCC has regulations on the “allowable” amount of emitted radiation of a licensed device, but devices in close proximity are supposed to play nicely together. Presumably the 580EX and the 580EX II emit an RF spike that is within the allowable limits as set by the FCC, but since the PW is always used in very close proximity to the flash unit, there is some "splashover", and this is where the problem lies.

Does it work? The 'geeks' at Pocket Wizard (see link here or just above) tested 580EX II units both before and after this mod using their fancy spectrum analyzers, and show all kinds of comparison graphs of the reduction in RF noise from before and after the mod has been done. You will likely have to do your own real time, real life testing to believe it yourself.

Here are some recent notes from some of the many satisfied photogs who have had this mod done on diferent 580EX II flash units:

Michael,First, let me thank you for a wonderful “customer experience”. I’m delighted with the way you’ve assisted in getting my flash units and Pocket Wizards to work together. So far, I’m thrilled with the results I’m getting from my “new” units! I’d like to send you two more in a couple of weeks, if you’re still available and willing to do the mods.Again, many thanks,Jorge L

Hi Michael!I've been meaning to write and thank you again for doing the modification. This past weekend I had a wedding where I did my usual PW/ 580 EX ii set up and it actually worked - every time! I can't tell you how happy I was to actually have it work! I even went to the back of the reception hall and it still fired. So so grateful I found you and just wanted to thank you again for your prompt service and help. You're the best!Many thanks,Maggie H

Hello Michael!I just want to say I used all three flashes yesterday at the wedding, and they works fantastically! After all the stress I’ve been through previous to the modifications...it was all worth it. Finally my expensive equipment all work correctly together and does what I ask it too. Thanks again! I will definitely spread the word about your services.

Have a fabulous week!Christine M

Hello Michael - Tested the flash and it works great - Thanks!

I haven't had the time to do much of a test, but it fires every time and that is a Huge improvement.

Brady W

(11/25/2011)Got my flash back today.The results are outstanding!

Before modification the maximum distance I could achieve with that flash without the sock was 42 ft.

Today, after modification, I had to stop after 173 ft (when I ran out of room) and was still at 100% success. I’m not sure if the AC3 could continue to increase the distance once I got to a limit? But the 173 ft will certainly meet my needs.

The modification was worth every cent. I’ll be sending you another unit in the near future.

Thanks again,

Joe H

Alternatives? Use a 430EX II, 550EX, Vivitar, or Nikon flash

Self Test Method: Is there even a problem that needs to be adderessed with this combination? Try this self test:

Use a long (5 foot) sync cord. Put the receiver PW close to or attached onto the off camera 580EX II flash unit at about 4 feet off the ground. Make sure the transmitter PW is at least 3 feet away and start firing the flash remotely, while increasing the distance from the transmitter PW to the receiver PW. Keep track of the number of misfires, if any. Keeping the flash at 1/128 manual power will assure a fast recycle time for testing. Next extend the sync cord so the receiver PW is at least 4 feet away from the off camera flash, and run the test firing again, increasing the distance between the PW's. Since RF radiation travels through the air, and not the wire, it is the physical separation between the receiving PW and the flash that is important, not the length of wire between the devices. You will likely find that when the reciever PW is separated from the flash by 4 feet horizontally, the firing rate increases dramatically over having the reciever PW very close to the source of the RF radiation (the flash unit).

So, either use the barrier sleeve, get the mod done, use a larger physical separation, use a different flash unit, or use a different brand of radio.

A(***)430EX II Aux Sync Jack Mod
AS1002While the 430EX II flash does not have any RF Interference issues that need modifications like the 580EX II, 580EX, and 430EX (writeup and corrective mods coming soon), it also does not have any type of sync jack. Here the Aux Sync Jack has been added, and due to the overly large foot plate and locking assembly, the jack had to be put into the flash body instead of the foot assembly, which means almost a total disassembly of the entire flash to gain proper access. This 430EX II Aux Sync Jack Mod (sub-mini jack) is being held to just $75, the standard 16 inch sync cord ending in the straight mini plug is $15. Other cords, shorter and longer, with RA or straight plugs are also available and can be seen in the Sync Cord section. The flash head on this flash rotates 180 degrees counter-clockwise, but only 90 degrees clockwise (viewed from above). To do the Extended Rotation Mod for this flash (as seen in other units), would be $40 when done along with the Aux Sync Jack Mod, or $55 if it is done as a separate item.

A0(***)430EX II Replacement Foot Assembly
For those of you who have managed to break the foot plate off of the foot assembly, this bottom assembly is now available (in limited supply) for $55, and the rubber gasket is optional at $5.

A1(***)ScrewLock PC Jack Added to 580EX Flash
AS1003Normally the Aux Sync Jack Mod is done using the sub-mini jack due to a size constraint, and the difficulty of finding the ScrewLock PC jack itself, as can be seen for other flash units throughout this section, including the 580EX. In the image left, (and the inset image of the foot assembly), you can see the ScrewLock PC Jack has been addedd to the 580EX flash unit. While the normal Aux Sync Jack Mod is $60 for the 580EX, it is an additional $40 to use the ScrewLock PC jack due to the difficulty in securing this item, for a total of $100 for this mod. Sync cords are available separately, (Sync Cord Section) and either the Standard PC Plug, or the better, more reliable ScrewLock PC Plug can be used in connecting this flash to a radio or directly to your camera.

A2(***)580EX with Triple Sync Connections:1) Mini, 2) ScrewLock, and 3) Sub-Mini Jacks
AS1004For those of you who can't decide which type of Aux Sync Jack is the best to get, just get THREE. Here is the 580EX with Triple Sync Connections. It is $60 to add the sub-mini 2.5mm) or mini jack (3.5mm), and then just $40 to add in the second or third connection (a discount of $20 over the individual mods). When the ScrewLock PC Jack is used, there is an additional $40, due to the difficulty in obtaining this part. The standard 16 inch sync cord ending in the straight mini plug is included only when the sub-mini jack is used. For the mini jack and the ScrewLcok PC jack, sync cords are additional, and many types can be found in the Sync Cord Section.

B(***)Sigma EF-500 DG Super Mods (Sony Version)
AS1005This version of the Sigma EF-500 DG Super (Sony) can not be used off camera and fired using a hot shoe, or a simple Aux Sync Jack as in the Canon and Nikon versions, but needs to be triggered by being electronically tied into the optical sensor circuit. This Aux Sync Jack (mini jack) is wired so the optical sensor is mechanically disabled when a mini plug is inserted into the mini jack, so that the optical sensor will not falsely trigger the flash from the light of another flash unit (sometimes the RF interference signal from another Sigma unit will cause some false triggering when in close proximity). This Aux Sync Jack Mod is $80, but does not include any sync cords, which are available in various forms in the Sync Cord Section, starting at $15.

Also shown on this specific example is the Extra Detent Mod ($55), which adds extra stops in the head angle at 15, 30, and 45 degrees, as well as the Extended Clockwise Rotation Mod ($55), which allows the flash head to rotate beyond the factory set 90 degrees to the right (clockwise from above).

C(***) Extra Detent Mod - Sigma
AS1006Here the Sigma EF-500 DG Super has been modded to allow Extra Detents in the vertical head angle. As the flash comes from the factory, it hard locks at 0 and 90 dgrees, with soft locks at 60 and 75 degrees. The new detents (soft locks) are placed at 15 degree intervals, so now the flash will stop at 15, 30 and 45 degrees, in addition to the stops as originally set. This mod requires dismantling the upper flash head, while the Extended Clockwise Rotation Mod requires dismantling the lower flash head. This mod is $40 when done along with the Aux Sync Jack Mod, or $55 when the mod is done alone.

D(***)540EZ Aux Sync Jack - Mini Jack into Body:
AS1007The 540EZ, along with the 550EX, has a very cramped foot assembly, which until now, could only have the sub-mini jack added as an Aux Sync Jack. Adding the mini jack is now possible, although the entire lower flash body does need some disassembly, and parts rearrangement. The mod fee for this mini jack being added to either unit is $80, not including a sync cord (starting at $25). To add the ScrewLock PC jack to either flash unit would be $120, also not including a sync cord.

The Extended Clockwise Rotation Mod is shown here for the Sigma EF-500 DG Super flash unit (above left), and the Canon 540EZ flash unit (above right). The mod happens to be more difficult on these flash units than for the Nikon SB600, and while the Aux Sync Jack Mod is only $60 for the Sigma unit (Canon or Nikon foot, $70 for the Canon units), the Extended Clockwise Rotation Mod is $40 when the Aux Sync Jack Mod is done, or $55 for the mod alone.

The New Canon 430EX II unit also falls into this category for the Extended Clockwise Rotation Mod, and is the same pricing as as shown here.

F(***)Extended Clockwise Rotation Mod - Nikon SB800
AS1010
The newest flash mod, is for an older flash, the Nikon SB800. Even though this flash has a PC jack, adding the Aux Sync Jack as shown provides an alternative connection point to match other modded flash units. Since this flash does not have a removable foot assembly, this mod requires taking most of the flash apart to gain access and room for the sub-mini jack, the Mod Fee is being kept to the same $70 as many of the other flash units. The standard 16 inch sync cord ending in a straight mini plug is included with this mod, and other plugs, and cords are available as needed and listed in the other posts in this section. While the flash is apart for the Aux Sync Jack Mod, the flash head can be modified to allow an increased clockwise rotation from the factory maximum 90 degrees, to about 150 degrees, as shown in the right image above. It would be $30 to do the Extended Clockwise Rotation Mod along with the Aux Sync Jack Mod, or $45 to do just this mod alone, without doing the Aux Sync Jack Mod.

Here is the new location for the Aux Sync Jack (Sub-Mini, 2.5mm size) for the Nikon SB-800, and this mod fee is $70. To have the Mini Jack installed, a different location is needed, and the fee increases to $80, just as for the Nikon SB-600.

G(***)580EX II Re-Wire Mod
AS1012The 580 EX II has an included PC jack, but it is not active in the all important Manual-Master mode (click link for detailed explanation of the different modes of operation). This mod will make the PC jack active in this and all modes of the flash for $60. A straight sync cord, up to 10 inches long, ScrewLock PC plug to a straight mini plug is available for $30 ($35 for the RA mini plug). Coiled rubber sync cords with the ScrewLock PC plug and straight mini plug up to 30 inches are $35, and $45 for lengths up to 5 feet. The safety clip is inlcuded on the 5 foot cords. Additionally, the sync jack is NOT active to fire a radio transmitter when the flash is in the camera hot shoe, UNLESS this mod is done!

H Master-Manual mode is used when this flash is set up off camera and is physically connected (sync cord) to a radio receiver (ie PW), and can then be triggered by the radio set wirelessly (RF signals) AND also communicate wirelessly (IR signals) and trigger other off camera Canon EX flash units set up as Manual-Slave units.

For a GREAT way to mount the PW (Pocket Wizard) to this and all flash units, see the PW Caddy ($16 each)

IMPORTANT NOTE (11-18-07): When this flash is used with the Canon 1D Mark III, and as of 6-18-08 also the 40D, the sync jack will NOT output a signal to fire a radio transmitter, even if this mod is done. Doing the mod will, however, allow the flash to output a signal to fire a transmitter with all the other Canon bodies, and will also allow an input signal from a radio receiver in all 6 of the operational modes, regardless which Canon body is being used.

The current workaround here would be to connect the radio transmitter directly to the camera PC jack, instead of the 580EX II, or use the 580EX II flash as the off camera flash, and use a different flash for the on camera fill unit. The PW can be mounted either to the flash head (PW Caddy), or even to the camera bottom using the Modified Tripod Quick Release Setup, shown here.

UPDATE (1-29-08): Testing is STILL in process to filter the trigger output so this combination of flash and body works just as it does with the other Canon bodies. I hope to have a definite answer soon! Stay tuned!

UPDATE (5-13-09): I now have a work around trigger. It is currently being called the "Pre-Flash Ignore Trigger", and more of the writeup can be seen in the New Projects Section, at the attached link. This little device will ignore the pulsing and pre-flash, and trigger a radio transmitter, or a slave flash just when the main flash fires. The device can be made in various forms and configurations. Since it is not a mass produced item, it is available with different options (more to follow).

I(***)580EX II PC Jack Swap Mod
AS1013Here the same 580 EX II has the PC jack replaced with either a mini jack or a sub-mini jack for $25 ($60 if done without or separate from the Re-Wire Mod). (The sync cord is included when the sub-mini jack is used, but additional when the mini jack is used.) The mod to re-wire the unit to allow the sync jack to be active in all modes (including Manual-Master) is $60. The 6 foot coiled sync cord as seen in the Sync Cord Section (and often used with my original 580 EX sync mod shown below) is $35, has a RA sub-mini molded plug, the safety clip, and a straight mini plug.

J(***)580EX Aux Sync Jack Mod
AS1014The Aux Sync Jack Mod here is for the Canon 580 EX Flash and the rest of the Canon line of flash units. This mod will add the aux sync jack (sub-mini jack) to the flash unit - the one that Canon "forgot" to add, and now is only included in a crippled form for the newer 580 EX II (above). Each mod is $60. The one Standard 16 Inch Sync Cord is $15. (This mod can also be done for this unit using the mini jack (3.5mm) as seen here, although the sync cord is then an optional extra cost item.) You can replace the straight sync cable with the 6' Coiled Cable for $20, (shown in the picture) or it can be bought separately (as an extra or backup) for $40. For each mod done, you can purchase one extra standard sync cable for $10 (normally $15). As described in the OEM Replacement Notes below, you may be able to get up to a $30 refund or credit on your original foot assembly if you wish. This mod can be done on a flash unit you send in to me, or just the Foot Assembly you send in to me, or on a new Foot Assembly ($45 additional charge).

K(***)Aux Sync Jack Case Mod
AS1015If you have one of the original Aux Sync Jack Mods done for the 580EX flash unit, the area around the sub-mini jack will likely look like that on the left side in the image of the Aux Sync Jack Case Mod. This is fine if you are using only a Narrow Neck Sub-Mini Plug on your sync cord. This was the only type of plug and sync cord that was available when this mod was first offered. The right side of the image of the Aux Sync Jack Case Mod shows how the case needs to be modified by reducing the plastic in a half-moon shape (follow the blue line) around the sub-mini jack in order for a standard sub-mini jack to fit properly. This is an easy DIY item, or I can do it for you for a $15 S/H fee in the USA.

L(***)Sub-Mini Plug Camparison - Narrow Neck Mod:
AS1016The Sub-Mini Plug Comparison - Narrow Neck Mod shows the sub-mini plug that is factory molded onto the 6 Foot Coiled Sync Cable on the left. This sub-mini plug has a reduced neck, although the overall plug size is longer than the standard sub-mini plug (seen on the right). It also happens to be a 3 conductor (notice the 2 black insulator bands) sub-mini plug that can carry 2 different information channels. This was the plug and sync cord that was originally offered when the Aux Sync Jack Mod was first introduced several years ago. The standard sub-mini plug seen on the right has been custom modified to have a narrow neck to match the factory plug on the left as a way to fit into the tighter spaces that previously only the left plug could fit into. Doing this Narrow Neck Mod will add $15 to the cost of whatever this plug is being used on.

M(***)580EX Metal Foot Plate Mod
AS1017Here is the 580EX Foot Assembly with a Metal Foot Plate and Lock Assembly taken from the 580EX II, replacing the existing plastic parts of the 580EX. So many photogs have been asking for this, but since the metal foot plate is not available from Canon as a replacement item the way the plastic foot plate is, an entire foot assembly from the 580 EX II is needed to harvest the foot plate and locking mechanism, obviously adding to the costs of this mod. To add this metal foot plate and locking assembly to any of the Canon flash units will cost $155. The rubber gasket is optional at $5 with this mod, or $10 as a separate item for replacement since Canon no longer includes this item when purchasing the foot assembly. You can either send me your entire flash unit, or just the 580EX foot assembly itself (4 screws and a single connector to remove). If you want this mod on a new 580EX foot assembly, you have to add that cost in as well at $45. Also shown is the Aux Sync Jack added to the 580EX foot assembly, which is still $60. The standard 16 inch sync cord, ending in a straight mini plug is $15..

N(***)Important: While this metal foot plate is stronger than the previous plastic foot plate, remember that this really just transfers the load to another section of the assembly (up or down). The locking ring and metal foot plate is attached to the rest of the assembly with 4 small screws, and the entire foot assembly is attached to the rest of the flash also with 4 small screws, all of these just threaded into plastic. While the orginal plastic foot plate was the inexpensive breakaway point in the original design, now that the metal foot plate is in place, any fall or extra stress to the assembly will result in a break either in the camera hot shoe, or the rest of the foot assembly of the flash (see image below of just this event).

O(***)Extra Important: This mod was originally done for a photog who wanted it done, period. Please understand, that this mod will NOT make your flash attachment stronger; it will only make it a more expensive repair bill when things break, not if they break. The image below shows the metal foot mod having broken off from the housing that is still firmly attached to the original 580Ex foot assembly. As indicated by the enlargements in the blue circles, the screws didn't just come loose, but all 4 plastic collars broke loose. To repair an item like this involves either putting a new 580EX foot assembly back in place which is $45 + S/H, or reattaching a new metal foot plate and locking assembly into the existing still attached housing, and then resoldering all the wires back together, which is a repair of about $55 + S/H. If you ask my opinion, I would skip this mod entirely, and buy an extra foot plate ($10) or extra foot assembly ($45) for disaster planning. The foot assembly can be changed in 5 minutes with a small screwdriver, while the foot plate will likely take 15 to 20 minutes (4 extra screws, 5 litle, easy to lose springs, and small pins).

The bottom line is that I hope you finish reading these sections, and then realize that you do not want to have the Metal Foot Plate Mod done, unless you have plenty of money that you just don't care about...

For a GREAT way to mount the PW (Pocket Wizard) to this and all flash units, see the PW Caddy ($16 each)

Q(***)Short RA-RA Sync Cord
AS1019
The images below (click to enlarge in a new window) show how a shortened RA-RA sync cord (10.25 inches) is used to neatly connect a PW (mounted on a PW Caddy) to a flash unit that has the Aux Sync Jack added. The cord allows full rotation of the flash head, but is not so long that it gets in the way. This sync cord is $20 by itself, or just $5 when the Aux Sync Jack Mod is done on your flash unit (using the sub-mini jack only). The PW Caddy is available for $16 each. When the Aux Sync Jack is on the right side of the flash like for the Canon 550EX, or the 540EZ or the Metz 54, the length of the shortened cord should be 12 inches for full 180 degree rotation of the flash head.

Q1(***)PW & Battery Pack Attached to Flash Head
AS1021When you mount the PW to the flash head using the PW Caddy and then sync using the Short RA-RA Sync Cord (as above), an external battery pack can be sandwiched in between for a rapid power recycle. In this fashion, the flash controls can be adjusted, the flash can still easily be handheld, moved about, or put down without being tethered by the the battery cord. You can even give the unit to someone else to hold as the ultimate mobile light stand. The High Density Foam Pad and the Double Stick Velcro Strap can be made as a DIY item, or get them together here for just $20.

R(***)Canon EX Flash - Sonia Optical Trigger
AS1022
Who said the Canon EX flash units (580 EX, 550 EX, 430 EX) don't work with the Sonia Optical Slave Trigger? I have added the electronics into several devices (hot shoe, connectors, etc) for easy to use, repeatable results. Here is a link to the details and different connectors: Canon EX Flash - Reliable Optical Trigger Connections. The images below show 2 of the different devices that will allow the Sonia Optical Trigger to repeatedly fire the Canon EX flash units.The image on the left shows the special cable attached to a standard hot shoe to mini plug adapter, while the right image shows the special cable connected directly into the Aux Sync Jack of the 580 EX unit.

S(***) 430 EX Aux Sync Jack Mod
AS1024This image shows the Aux Sync Jack added to the Canon 430 EX Flash unit. The mod is $70 for this unit. The Standard 16 Inch Sync Cord is $15. You can replace the straight sync cable with the 6' Coiled Cable for $20, or it can be bought separately for $40. For each mod done, you can purchase one extra standard sync cable for $10 (normally $15). As described in the OEM Replacement Notes below, you may be able to get up to a $30 refund or credit on your original foot assembly if you wish. It is an additional $10 fto have the mini jack inserted into the flash instead of the sub-mini jack, and the sync cord is not included at this price, but can be ordered separately, if needed.

Here is the Canon 430EX with the Aux Sync Jack (mini-jack) added into the body of the flash. This mod is $80, and does not include the sync cord, which would be purchased separately.

T(***)430 EX Aux Sync Jack on OEM Foot Assy
AS1025This image shows how the 430 EX Aux Sync Jack is placed in the foot assembly. Notice how steep the sides of the housing are, which is why the jack protrudes out to make a nice neat finished look. This foot assembly can be purchased for $45, in addition to the mod fee of $70. As described in the OEM Replacement Notes below, you may be able to get up to a $30 refund or credit on your original foot assembly if you wish.

U(***)580EX II Jack Swap / Re-Wire on OEM Foot
AS1026This image shows the 580EXII Aux Sync Jack with the sub-mini jack replacing the PC jack. This foot assembly can be purchased for $55, in addition to the mod re-wiring fee of $60. The rubber gasket is optional at $5 with this mod, or $10 as a separate item for replacement since Canon no longer includes this item when purchasing the foot assembly. To swap the PC jack and replace it with the sub-mini (2.5mm) jack, and provide the Standard 16 Inch Sync Cord is $25 ($60 if done without the Re-Wire Mod). The sync cord is included when the sub-mini (2.5mm) jack is used, but is additional when the mini (3.5mm) jack is used. You can replace the straight sync cable with the 6' Coiled Cable for $20, or it can be bought separately for $40. For each mod done, you can purchase one extra standard sync cable for $10 (normally $15). As described in the OEM Replacement Notes below, you may be able to get up to a $30 refund or credit on your original foot assembly if you wish.

Important Note on Re-Wire Mod:
While the 580EX II Re-Wire Mod will make the sync jack active as an INPUT in the Master-Manual mode when the flash is used off camera (can be fired by a connected radio receiver), and as an OUTPUT when the flash is sitting in the camera hot shoe (will fire a connected radio transmitter), the new digital signal that is superimposed on the center trigger contact by the newer Canon cameras (40D, 50D, 60D, 5D Mk II, 7D, 1D Mk III, IV) will make the radio transmitter fire multiple times, and not just the once that is usually required. Currently the workaround is to use the camera PC jack for this combination of camera and flash. This issue does not exist if this flash is used with an "older" camera like the 5D.

V(***)Foot Plate Canon EX Flash
PJ1038 (AS1027)The Replacement Foot Plate for Canon Flash Units (580 EX, 550 EX, and 430 EX) is $30, and can be used to repair a broken foot plate for the popular Canon flash units. This replacement foot plate can also be used to refurbish a 580 EX or 430 EX foot assembly being evaluated for a credit or refund. See the the OEM Replacement Notes below. It is an extra $30 to have me replace (or to reset it if you have helped first) the foot plate for the 580EX and the 430EX, and $25 extra for the 550EX. Sorry, but instructions are NOT included.

V1(***)Foot Plate for Sigma Flash
PJ1039 (AS1027A)Here you can see the Replacement Foot for the Sigma Flash Units (set for Nikon on the left, and Canon, on the right. These foot plates are $30 each and can be used to repair a broken foot plate for the EF-500 Series of Sigma Units. It is an extra $30 to have me replace the foot plate, or to reset it if you have helped first. Even through the Replacement Foot Plate for the Canon Units looks very similar to the Sigma item, the locking ring thread size and index nubs are made differently so they are not interchangable. Sorry, but instructions are NOT included.

V2(***)Nikon SB-28: This type of foot plate is now available for the Nikon SB-28 flash unit and is $30 each. It is an extra $30 to have me replace the foot plate, or to reset it if you have helped first.

W1(***)Sigma EF-500 DG Super Aux Sync Jack
AS1029The mod is $60 for the Sigma EF-500 DG Super flash unit. The Standard 16 Inch Sync Cord is $15. As with the other Flash Mods, you can replace the straight sync cable with the 6' Coiled Cable for $20. This flash unit can have the larger mini jack (3.5mm) instead of the normal sub-mini jack (2.5mm) for just an additional $5, although the sync cord is not included in the price of $65 when the mini jack is used. The mini jack would be located on the rear face of the flash unit, as can be seen here in the mod for the Sigma EF-500 Super (Sony version).

X(***)Olympus FL-50R Aux Sync Jack
AS1030The Olympus FL-50R can also have the Aux sync Jack, and it is also just $60. The Standard 16 Inch Sync Cord ending in the straight mini plug is $15. As with many of these Aux Sync Jack Mods, the jack can be placed on either side of the foot, based on your preferences. This lower image shows the location on the foot assembly when the mini jack (3.5 mm) is used for this Aux Sync Jack. Using the mini jack, the cost of the Aux Sync Jack Mod is $65. A mini plug to mini plug sync cord, 16 inches long, would be $15 additional.

Z(***)Nikon Sb-600 Aux Sync Jack
AS1032
Adding the Aux Sync Jack to the Nikon SB-600 costs $80. The Standard 16 Inch Sync Cord is $15. You can replace the straight sync cable with the 6' Coiled Cable for $20, or it can be bought separately for $40. For each mod done, you can purchase one extra standard sync cable for $10 (normally $15). If you are looking to have the mini jack (3.5mm) installed, instead of the smaller sub-mini jack (2.5mm), the flash body needs to be disassembled to fit the larger size of the mini jack, as can be seen in the next image left. The mod fee is $80, but the sync cord is not included. A 12 inch RA (right angle) mini plug to RA mini plug sync cord would be $20, and many other styles and sizes are available, and can be seen in the Sync Cord Section. The ScrewLock PC Jack can also be added to this flash, although that would be an additional $40 for the component part over the mod fee for the mini jack. Again, the sync cord is not included with the ScrewLock PC Jack Mod, although many styles are available, starting at $30.

RadioPopper JrX Studio Quench Setup
This Aux Sync Jack can also be wired into the Quench circuit for use with the RadioPopper JrX Studio Setup for an additional $30. A 3 conductor (also called stereo) mini plug must be used if this option is selected to connect to the JrX Receiver. If you also want to connect to a standard 2 wire trigger, you will need a special sync cord adapter (stereo to mono), or have an isolation switch added to the flash or the sync cord to allow for normal operations.

AA(***)Canon 550 EX Aux Sync Jack
AS1033Adding the Aux Sync Jack to the Canon 550EX (& 430EX, 540EZ) costs $70. The Standard 16 Inch Sync Cord is $15. You can replace the straight sync cable with the 6' Coiled Cable for $20, or it can be bought separately for $40. For each mod done, you can purchase one extra standard sync cable for $10 (normally $15). Adding the mini jack is now possible (see the 540EZ posting, and just below), although the entire lower flash body does need some disassembly, and parts rearrangement. The mod fee for this mini jack has been reduced for the 550EX to $70, just like the sub-mini jack. To add the ScrewLock PC jack to this flash unit would be $120.

The images below show the 550EX with the sub-mini jack (also called 2.5mm, or 3/32 inch) on the left, and the mini jack (also called 3.5mm, or 1/8 inch) on the right. The Aux Sync Jack is added into the body of the flash, and not the foot section, so the size of the molding will not be an issue in this position.

Here is the Canon 540EZ flash unit, which uses a similar body to the 550EX flash unit. This image (left) shows the Screwlock PC jack added to the flash body (right side). To add the ScrewLock PC jack to this flash unit would be $120.

AB(***)Metz 54 Mz-4i Aux Sync Jack
AS1034Here the Aux Sync Jack is added to the Metz 54 MZ-4i Flash unit. Although this is the SCA 3102 Canon module, all the modules can have the mod, which is $70. The Standard 16 Inch Sync Cord is $15. You can replace the straight sync cable with the 6' Coiled Cable for $20, or it can be bought separately for $40. For each mod done, you can purchase one extra standard sync cable for $10 (normally $15). Since the module can easily separate from the flash, only the module has to be sent in to have the mod done, although having the rest of the flash will allow full testing of the setup both before and after the mod is done. This image show the Aux Sync Jack on the RIGHT side of the foot module, but it can also be located on the LEFT side of the foot module, in the same forward location, your preference. The full sized mini jack (3.5mm) can be added into the body of this flash for $80, or the ScrewLock PC jack can be used for $120.

For a GREAT way to mount the PW (Pocket Wizard) to this and all flash units, see the PW Caddy ($16 each)

When there is not enough room anywhere in the flash foot or body to place an internal mini or sum-mini jack, the only other options are to use a hot shoe adapter, or to add the Aux Sync Jack on a short cord as in the image here. This External Aux Sync Jack is $70, not including a needed sync cord, which is usually made as a RA to straight mini plug to mini plug cord and starting costs from $20.

Flash Mods go to the top of the workpile, no delay!Additional $10 for 550, 540, 430, 420 (extra fuss)

Off Camera Use When Mod is Done: Flash can be mounted on a stand, and triggered using the cable plugged into a Pocket Wizard, FreeXwire, or MicroSync receiver! (No extra adapters to keep track of or come loose) Without having this mod done, a hot shoe (F) to mini plug is needed as a connection adapter.On Camera Use When Mod is Done: Allows mounting flash unit in the camera HOT SHOE, maintaining E-TTL functions, and still triggering your Pocket Wizard transmitter without using the camera pc jack (certain flash and camera combinations with exception). Without this Mod: Without this modification, the Canon Off Camera Shoe Cord 2 or OC-E3, or the Nikon OCC, modified (by me) to include one of the following: 1)additional hot shoe, 2)miniphone plug, or 3)sync cable is needed along with a custom bracket to hold both the Pocket Wizard and the flash unit!

MANY SATISFIED CUSTOMERS!!!..... COMMENTS / QUESTIONS WELCOME!!!Notice: This modification works great, and should have been included by Canon, but naturally will void your 1 year Canon warranty, as only a Canon Factory Service Center is authorized to disassemble the flash unit (according to Canon) .

This mod has no effect on any of the E-TTL functions or the external power connector of the flash units, as only the trigger wires are accessed, and not any of the data cables.

The new 580 EX II has a PC sync jack, although it is disabled when the flash is in the hot shoe, so it cannot be used to fire a radio transmitter when still in the camera hot shoe! The sync jack is also disabled when the flash is in Manual-Master mode, but the re-wiring mod for the 580 EX II will restore full function to the PC jack.

AC(***)Aux Sync Jack Flash Mod - Foot Swap: This mod can be done on an OEM Replacement Foot for $40 in addition to the mod fee for the 430 EX and the 580 EX, and $50 additional for the 580 EX II. I normally only suggest using the OEM Replacement Foot Swap if you positively can't be without your flash unit for any time at all. While both the the 580 EX II, the 580 EX, and the 430 EX can be swapped in the field (easy to follow instructions included), the other models will require sending the unit in to me for the mod and swap. That means you can either pay the extra $40 (or $50) and get a spare foot assembly, or send your foot assembly in to me without the rest of the flash unit and I will do the mod on your foot assembly, and then return your modded foot assembly by the carrier and speed of your choice (S/H charges apply).
If you purchase a replacement foot assembly for $45, and your original foot assembly is in pristine condition (no foot plate scratches), you can send it in for evaluation, and a possible $30 refund or services credit. If it does not qualify for full credit, possibly the Foot Plate itself can be replaced for $20, which would the allow a $20 refund or services credit. Should your returned foot assembly not qualify for credit, return S/H is your responsibility. (The maximum credit for the 580 EX II would be $40. No replacement foot plates are currently available for the 580 EX II, only the entire foot assembly.)

AD(***)Important Notes: Prepaid Return LabelSending a prepaid return label can save you the shipping fees, and allow you to use your own shipping method at your own discounts. It also saves me from having to fuss with generating a shipping label, as I can just put your label right over the old one, tape it up and drop it off, no stopping required. A $5 handling fee does apply, and is added to the total charges due if you pre-pay the shipping charges.

Why a handling fee you ask: The postage fees do pay for the transport via the USPS, but being a one-man operation, I still have to make a special trip to the Post Office to drop off the package itself to assure a timely delivery. The alternative is for me to wait additional days to send multiple packages at the same time, or call the USPS to arrange for pickups, which also tend to delay the shipping by at least a day. For larger boxes, it is not just leaving the package in the mailbox for the postman. If you have further questions or comments, just ask!

If you are sending a return label using the USPS (US Post Office), you must print out and pay for the label on your own computer as the USPS will only give you stamps and not a true prepaid label. You can log into USPS.com and pay for the shipping by credit card.

If you are using either FedEx or UPS, you can either hand write or computer generate a label and include your account number for billing back to you. Make sure the box you use will fit into a FedEx or UPS drop box.

If I have to write or generate a label for you, repackage the unit to fit in a drop box, or wait in line at the Post Office, I will have to charge the normal S/H fees, and this will delay the return of the unit back to you waiting for the additional funds.

A2(***)RF Shielding Sleeve for Canon Flash:Why You Need This: Certain Canon flash units, like the 430EX, 580EX, and the 580EX II are known to cause an RF interference in the frequency range of the USA version of the Pocket Wizard (PW) radio receivers, which is causing a distinct degradation in the RF signal that is being received. This translates to a distinct reduction in the distance that can be achieved when using these flash units with these radios. The RF sgnal spikes (noise) emitted by these flash units is likely within the amounts allowed by the FCC, but it is this overlap to the PW frequencies that is causing the decrease in effective transmission range. It also seems that either by accident or design, these spikes and noise are not present with the 430EX II flash unit, so an obvious workaround would be to use two (2) of these noiseless 430EX II units together on a Dual Bracket of some kind instead of a single 580EX or 580EX II for off camera use. Click the link to jump to an entire section of Dual Flash Brackets and Stands, and a discussion of just why you do want a Dual Flash Setup.

A3(***)What Else Can Be Done:Two Mods Are Needed: 1) External, 2) Internal
So, if you are still keeping your 580EX, or 580EX II for off camera connection to a PW receiver, and want to maximize the transmission reliability and distance, you need to keep the radio receiver as high as possible (10 feet or more above the ground) and it needs to be at some distance from the flash unit. This will decrease the effects of the RF interference, but obviously, this combination is not always possible to achieve, so there are usually 2 mods (1) External, and 2) Internal) to achieve the most reduction in the RF interference, and where possible, both mods are needed together for the best results. The External Mod consists of the RF Shielding Sleeve, while the Internal Mod consists of adding special EMI Suppression Beads into the flash unit.

A4(***)1) External Mod: One part of reducing this RF interference is to isolate the flash unit from the radio receiver itself by using a RF Shielding Sleeve as shown in these 3 images (above, left, and bottom). This material is a High Performance Silver Mesh (see through) fabric, custom made to fit and ground to the rails of the mounting shoe. In terms of material specifications, the shielding effectiveness is almost 60dB from 30 MHz to 3 GHz! The material is very thin and allows you to still see through to the flash controls, but still has a good tear strength. The bottom seam of the RF Shielding Sleeve has a nylon cord sewn in a drawstring type tube which is cinched tight around the metal rails of the mounting hot shoe to provide contact to the floating ground of the radio reciever. This ground plane contact is imperative to proper RF shielding.

A5(***)2) Internal Mod: The second part of reducing the RF interference from the flash unit is to eliminate as much of this noise as possible right at the source, by putting specially sized EMI Suppression Beads (ferrites) on the internal components that have been identified as some of the different sources of this noise. This naturally involves some disassembly of the flash housing, de-soldering of the offending components, placing correctly sized ferrites on the respective leads, and then reattaching the components in the correct polarity, all without getting zapped by the rather high internal voltages within the flash unit. (Images are not available of the components involved in which flash units.)